In French culture, few customs are as cherished as l’apéro. Short for apéritif, l’apéro refers not only to a light, pre-dinner libation, but also to the time spent enjoying it. Similar to American happy hour, l’apéro marks the transition between work and play.

This practice was the inspiration for L’Apéro les Trois, a wine-based beverage producer and tasting room of the same name. Opened in Winters in May of 2021, L’Apéro les Trois was founded by co-owner Corinne Martinez and winemaker Nicole Salengo, the team behind Berryessa Gap Vineyards, which is also in Winters. Noted food writer and Francophile Georgeanne Brennan rounds out the group as the third co-owner. The trio make up the “trois” in L’Apéro les Trois. 

Apéritifs take many forms, but they are typically low-alcohol beverages meant to stimulate the appetite before a meal. Popular apéritifs include the Aperol Spritz and the Kir Royal, a blend of black currant liqueur and Champagne. L’Apéro les Trois apéritifs take on a decidedly local flavor. Fortified wines from Berryessa Gap Vineyards are infused with seasonal fruits, nuts, herbs, and spices. Offerings include Blenheim Apricot, made from dry rosé, ripe and green apricots, and green almonds; Black Mission Fig, made from zinfandel, fig, and thyme; and Meyer Lemon, made from sauvignon blanc infused with citrus and vanilla.

Seasonality is a hallmark of L’Apéro les Trois, and its libations can be enjoyed any time of year. In fall and winter, the Homestead Quince is warmed up and served with honey and bits of allspice, ideal for enjoying around the fire. In spring and summer, the Apricot is served over ice for a refreshing patio-worthy cocktail. Although technically a vermouth, the apéritifs produced by L’Apéro les Trois are more fruit-forward, less herbaceous, and less bitter. Where vermouth balances the other components of a cocktail, these are meant to be enjoyed on their own or mixed with water or sparkling wine. In other words, they are the star of the show, not the supporting cast. 

Following the French custom, L’Apéro les Trois also offers a limited menu of small bites and snacks designed by Brennan to complement the apéritifs. Nuts, cheeses, black olive tapenade, and gougères (cheese puff pastries) are a few of the selections. Apéritif tasting flights are also offered. Martinez said although associated with Berryessa Gap Vineyards, the experience of L’Apéro les Trois is much different. It’s not only about tasting a unique product, but also about slowing down and savoring the time spent with friends or family. Lingering is encouraged.

“It’s a very different product and a very different experience,” Martinez says. “But it’s also for wine lovers who are curious about wine and the many different forms wine can take.”